Shepherd’s pie is a classic comfort food, and HelloFresh makes it even easier to enjoy this hearty dish at home. Whether new to cooking or just looking to simplify meal prep, the HelloFresh Shepherd’s Pie recipe delivers a flavorful, satisfying experience.
This guide will cover everything you need to know, from ingredients to serving suggestions, with step-by-step instructions and tips.
HelloFresh Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground lamb or beef
- 4 large potatoes, minced
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ cup Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- salt and pepper to taste
Video
What Is Shepherd’s Pie?
Shepherd’s pie is a traditional British dish with minced lamb, vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping. HelloFresh puts a modern twist on this classic, with easy-to-follow instructions and pre-portioned ingredients.
While many variations use beef instead of lamb, those are technically referred to as cottage pie. However, the principles remain the same a comforting, layered meal perfect for weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions to HelloFresh Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Now let’s break down the cooking process. Don’t worry if you’re new to the kitchen—this guide will ensure your HelloFresh Shepherd’s Pie turns out perfectly.
Here’s what you’ll need Ingredients
Step 1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes: Peel and dice the russet potatoes into small chunks for quicker cooking. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender. Finely chop the onion, garlic, and carrot.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Step 2. Cook the Filling
- Saute the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil and saute diced onions and carrots until softened.
- Brown the Meat: Add ground lamb or beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Add Flavor: Stir in garlic, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Simmer: Add the beef stock concentrate and a splash of water. Let the mixture simmer until slightly thickened.
Step 3. Assemble the Pie
- Layer the Filling: Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to an oven-safe dish.
- Spread the Potatoes: Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading evenly to cover the filling.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top for a golden crust.
Step 4. Bake
- Bake the shepherd’s pie in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a crispier topping, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Tips for Shepherd’s Pie HelloFresh
Use Fresh Ingredients
- HelloFresh ensures quality ingredients, but always check the freshness of your produce before starting.
Customize the Recipe
- Swap lamb for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Add peas or green beans for extra vegetables.
Perfect the Potatoes
- Avoid over-mashing the potatoes, as this can make them gummy. Use a potato masher or ricer for the best texture.
Let It Rest
- After baking, let the shepherd’s pie cool for 5-10 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Overcooking the Ground Meat: Browning the ground lamb for too long can make it dry and tough.
- Not Draining Excess Fat: Leaving too much fat in the skillet after browning the lamb can make the dish greasy.
- Skipping the Seasoning Layers: Not seasoning at every step results in a bland filling.
- Uneven Mashed Potato Layer: Spreading the mashed potatoes unevenly can lead to inconsistent cooking.
- Overloading with Liquid: Adding too much stock or sauce makes the filling soupy and difficult to set.
- Skipping the Broiling Step: Missing the final step of broiling can result in a pale topping.
Serving Suggestions for HelloFresh Pub Style Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s pie is a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pie.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve with broccoli or asparagus for added nutrients.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Storage and Reheating Tips for HelloFresh Shepherd’s Pie
Refrigeration
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Shepherd’s pie freezes well. Wrap tightly in foil or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For single servings, use the microwave.
Conclusion
The HelloFresh Shepherd’s Pie recipe brings together the comfort of a classic dish with the convenience of meal kits. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this step-by-step guide will help you create a delicious, satisfying meal.
With customizable options and simple instructions, shepherd’s pie can easily become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Nutrition
Total Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 65mg | Sodium: 293mg | Total Carbohydrate: 52g | Dietary Fiber: 7g | Total Sugars: 5g | Protein: 24g | Vitamin C: 50mg | Calcium: 127mg | Iron: 4mg | Potassium: 1442mg
FAQ
Can I make this recipe without an oven?
Yes! You can assemble the pie in a skillet and cook the topping on the stovetop. Cover and cook until heated through.
What can I use instead of lamb?
Ground beef, turkey, or plant-based meat substitutes work well.
How do I prevent the filling from being too runny?
Ensure you simmer the meat mixture until thickened before layering it with potatoes.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the pie, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free beef stock concentrate and Worcestershire sauce.